From Guimarães: Full-Day Tour in Guimarães and Fafe

Enjoy the captivating history and breathtaking landscapes of Guimarães and Fafe with this full-day tour. Uncover the rich cultural heritage of Guimarães, the birthplace of Portugal, as you explore its iconic castle and discover hidden gems. Then, soar above the stunning Penha Sanctuary on a thrilling cable car ride, savoring authentic Portuguese cuisine and the renowned Vinho Verde wine. But the adventure doesn’t end there – prepare to be awestruck by the unique Casa do Penedo, a striking architectural marvel nestled amidst the serene countryside. This remarkable journey promises to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and charm of Northern Portugal.

Good To Know

• This full-day tour from Guimarães explores the historic city and the unique architectural site of Casa do Penedo in Fafe.
• Highlights include guided visits to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Guimarães and Guimarães Castle, along with a Vinho Verde wine tasting.
• The tour features a cable car ride to the Penha Sanctuary, offering panoramic views, and a picnic lunch at Casa do Penedo.
• The tour is led by a multilingual expert guide and includes transportation, but excludes some entrance fees and personal expenses.
• While not suitable for wheelchair users or those with vertigo, the tour provides an immersive cultural and historical experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Tour

This full-day tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the historic cities of Guimarães and Fafe, providing visitors with a glimpse into Portugal’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Priced at £232.56 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and is a private group experience led by a live guide fluent in English, Portuguese, Spanish, and French.

Highlights include visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site of Guimarães, known as the cradle of Portugal, and exploring its historical center, Guimarães Castle, and the cable car ride to Monte da Penha.

Guests will also enjoy a wine tasting, local product sampling, and a picnic at the unique Casa do Penedo, making this tour a well-rounded and immersive experience.

Exploring Guimarães

Guimarães, the historic city at the heart of this tour, stands as the cradle of Portugal, boasting a rich tapestry of cultural heritage that beckons visitors to uncover its captivating past.

From the iconic Guimarães Castle, a commanding fortress that has borne witness to the nation’s formative years, to the meticulously preserved old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this city promises an immersive journey through Portugal’s revered origins.

Highlights of the Guimarães experience include:

1. Exploring the medieval streets and charming plazas of the historic center

2. Admiring the grandeur of the imposing Guimarães Castle, a testament to the city’s storied past

3. Indulging in local cuisine and sampling the renowned Vinho Verde wines

4. Riding the cable car to the Penha Sanctuary for panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

Cableway Ride and Penha Sanctuary

After exploring the historic city center, visitors embark on an enchanting cableway ride that whisks them up to the Penha Sanctuary, where they’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape.

The cable car glides effortlessly over the lush, verdant terrain, offering breathtaking views that showcase Guimarães’ natural beauty.

At the top, the Penha Sanctuary stands as a testament to the region’s rich religious heritage, with its striking architecture and serene atmosphere inviting visitors to pause and soak in the tranquility.

Guests can wander the sanctuary’s peaceful grounds, seeing the area’s spiritual traditions and taking in the awe-inspiring panorama that stretches out before them.

Lunch at a Local Restaurant

Midway through the tour, participants enjoy a delightful lunch at a charming local restaurant, where they savor authentic Portuguese cuisine and soak in the warm, convivial atmosphere of the community.

The menu features a tantalizing array of dishes, including:

• Hearty caldo verde, a traditional Portuguese kale and potato soup, simmered to perfection.

• Succulent grilled Bacalhau, a salted cod dish that’s a national treasure, paired with roasted potatoes and fresh seasonal vegetables.

• Creamy Pastel de Nata, the iconic Portuguese custard tart, for a sweet finish.

As they indulge in the flavors of the region, guests marvel at the friendly hospitality and the opportunity to connect with the local culture.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Vinho Verde Wine Tasting

As part of the tour, visitors are invited to a charming Quinta, where they savor the crisp, refreshing flavors of the region’s renowned Vinho Verde wines.

These light, effervescent white wines are the perfect accompaniment to the tour’s picturesque landscapes and historic landmarks.

The Quinta’s welcoming staff guide guests through a tasting of the area’s finest vintages, highlighting the unique terroir and traditional winemaking techniques that give Vinho Verde its distinctive character.

Visitors delight in discovering the subtle notes of citrus, green apple, and minerality that dance across the palate, leaving them with a greater appreciation for the rich viticultural heritage of Guimarães and Fafe.

This wine tasting provides a delightful sensory experience that complements the day’s diverse cultural offerings.

Casa Do Penedo Visit

Nestled amidst the rugged granite boulders of Fafe, the whimsical Casa do Penedo, or ‘House of Stone,’ captivates visitors with its unique architectural design and intriguing history. This peculiar dwelling, built in the 1970s, is renowned as one of the world’s most bizarre and remarkable houses.

Visitors can marvel at its four-room structure, which was ingeniously constructed directly into the natural rock formations. Some of the highlights include:

1. The natural rock walls that serve as the home’s foundation and exterior.

2. The home’s cozy interior, complete with a fireplace and basic furnishings.

3. The small windows that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

4. The opportunity to picnic on the property and explore the unique geological formations.

Participant Restrictions

The tour has several participant restrictions that visitors should be aware of before booking.

Notably, the tour is generally not suitable for wheelchair users due to the uneven terrain and occasional steep inclines.

Plus, individuals with vertigo or a fear of heights may find certain aspects of the tour, such as the cable car ride, quite challenging.

There’s also a weight limit of 350 lbs (159 kg) for participants, and the tour isn’t recommended for those over 95 years of age.

Despite these restrictions, the tour promises an unforgettable experience in the charming towns of Guimarães and Fafe, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and stunning natural landscapes.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a range of activities and services to enhance the overall experience, such as transportation from Guimarães, the services of a knowledgeable tour guide, and a wine tasting with local product sampling.

Visitors will also enjoy admission to the unique Casa do Penedo and a delicious lunch provided during the day.

The tour, however, doesn’t include:

1. Entrance fees to monuments not mentioned in the itinerary

2. Personal expenses

3. Tips

4. Other food and drinks not provided

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and memorable full-day adventure in the picturesque regions of Guimarães and Fafe, allowing you to learn about the rich history, stunning landscapes, and authentic local flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator has policies in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all participants. Guests are asked to leave their pets at home for the duration of the excursion.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Water and Snacks?

No, you don’t need to bring your own water and snacks. The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant, as well as a wine tasting and sampling of local products. Everything you’ll need for the day is provided!

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens?

Unfortunately, there’s no senior citizen discount mentioned for this tour. The pricing appears to be a flat rate of £232.56 per person regardless of age. The tour is open to all travelers, though there are some participant restrictions like weight and age limits.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Halal Meal?

Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian or halal meal requests. Simply inform the tour provider at the time of booking, and they’ll be happy to arrange a suitable meal option tailored to your dietary needs. The tour give you a personalized experience for all guests.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour can likely be extended for an additional fee. Guests should inquire with the tour provider about options to customize the duration and activities to suit their preferences. An extended tour could provide more time to explore the beautiful sights.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour of Guimarães and Fafe offers an immersive cultural experience.

Visitors will marvel at the historic Guimarães Castle, soar above stunning landscapes on a cableway, savor authentic Portuguese cuisine, and indulge in the region’s renowned Vinho Verde wines.

With an expert guide, this tour promises to deliver an unforgettable glimpse into the rich heritage and natural beauty of northern Portugal.

You can check if your dates are available here: